presumption

[pri-zuhmp-shuhn]

noun

1. the act of presuming. presuming.

2. assumption of something as true.

3. belief on reasonable grounds or probable evidence.

4. something that is presumed; an assumption.

5. a ground or reason for presuming presuming or believing.

6. Law.,  an inference required or permitted by law as to the existence of one fact from proof of the existence of other facts.

7. an assumption, often not fully established, that is taken for granted in some piece of reasoning.

8. unwarrantable, unbecoming, or impertinent boldness.

   Synonyms: gall, arrogance, effrontery, audacity

presumption

/ prɪˈzʌmpʃən /

noun

1. the act of presuming

2. bold or insolent behaviour or manners

3. a belief or assumption based on reasonable evidence

4. a ground or basis on which to presume

5. law an inference of the truth of a fact from other facts proved, admitted, or judicially noticed

Other Word Forms

• overpresumption noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of presumption¹

1175–1225; Middle English: effrontery, supposition < Latin praesūmptiōn- (stem of praesūmptiō ) anticipation, supposition, Late Latin: presumptuousness, equivalent to praesūmpt ( us ) (past participle of praesūmere to undertake beforehand; presume ) + -iōn- -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of presumption¹

C13: via Old French from Latin praesumptiō a using in advance, anticipation, from praesūmere to take beforehand; see _presume

Example Sentences

The other strand from the Smithsonian’s past—the bone rooms and racial condescension—inspired an antipathy toward any association with such notions and a resentment toward the presumptions of traditional museums.

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White men get away with this stuff because they enjoy a presumption of intelligence and authority that isn’t extended to women.

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With this first season, Hawley has given us an excellent tale about colonization that covers space, Earth, and body sovereignty, cautioning against presumptions of superiority.

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There’s a certain presumption and paternalism to the notion that California Democrats know what’s best for California Republicans.

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But it also has sparked conspiracy theories, hot-take presumptions the left was responsible and calls for vengeance against Kirk’s perceived enemies.

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Related Words

• assumption 
• likelihood 
• premise 
• supposition 
• suspicion